Karen Michele Wright

Karen was born in Indianapolis to James Arthur Schlanzer and Elisa Mae Schlanzer on August 5, 1949. She attended school in Indianapolis and graduated from IUPUI with a degree in teaching. She married James D. Wright on July 19, 1975, in Indianapolis. Karen most recently worked for the State of Indiana in the Department of Child Protective Services as a purchaser.

Karen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who was deeply involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren. She was always there to cheer them on — whether it was at theatre performances, dance recitals, golf tournaments, or cheerleading competitions. Her unwavering support and presence will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

She was a faithful member of St. Jude Catholic Church.

Karen is preceded in death by her parents, James Arthur Schlanzer and Elisa Mae Schlanzer, her sister Marilyn Schlanzer, and her daughter, Tanya Marie Irwin.

Karen is survived by her loving husband, James D. Wright; her son Derek Wright and his wife Tammy, and their sons Caleb Wright (wife Brooke) and their daughters Bristol and Eadie Wright, Kyle Wright (wife Julia), and Jacob Wright; her daughter Trisha Smith and her husband Brad, and their daughters Kyla and Corinne Smith; and her granddaughters Avery and Aliyah Irwin.

A public visitation for Karen will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Little & Sons Funeral Home, 1301 Main Street, Beech Grove, Indiana 46107. A Catholic funeral will occur Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at Little & Sons Funeral Home, with Deacon Isaac officiating.

Burial will follow at Calvary and Holy Cross/St. Joseph Cemeteries. Arrangements are by Little & Sons Funeral Home.

Memorials may be given in memory of her daughter to the Susan G. Komen Foundation or St. Jude Catholic Church or a charity of your choice.

The family of Karen Wright wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the staff at Little & Sons Funeral Home, St. Jude Catholic Church, and all the friends and loved ones who have supported us during this time.